Driving in Wales: The 20mph Limit & Tourist Guide
If you haven't visited Wales recently, you might be in for a surprise. Wales has introduced a default 20mph speed limit on restricted roads. Here's how to stay legal and avoid fines during your trip.
The 20mph Default Limit Explain
As of September 2023, the default speed limit on restricted roads in Wales changed from 30mph to 20mph.
What counts as a "restricted road"?
Usually, these are roads with streetlights placed no more than 200 yards apart. Historically, these were automatically 30mph. Now, they are automatically 20mph in Wales unless signed otherwise.
Exceptions to the Rule
Not every road is 20mph. Local authorities have exempted some main arterial roads, keeping them at 30mph.
- Look for signs: If you see a "30" sign, it's 30mph.
- No signs + streetlights: Assume it is 20mph.
Enforcement and Fines
Enforcement has ramped up in 2025.
- Fines: Standard speeding fine is minimum ÂŖ100 and 3 penalty points.
- Speed Awareness Courses: You may be offered a course if your speed was within a certain threshold (e.g., 24mph-31mph in a 20 zone).
- Cameras: Both fixed cameras and mobile vans are active in 20mph zones.
Other Welsh Driving Tips
đ´ķ §ķ ĸķ ˇķ Ŧķ ŗķ ŋ Bilingual Road Signs
All road signs in Wales are bilingual (Welsh and English).
Araf = Slow
Heddlu = Police
Ysgol = School
Canol y Dref = Town Centre
đ Rural Roads & Sheep
Wales has stunning scenic drives, but rural roads can be narrow, winding, and unfenced.
- Watch out for sheep wandering on the road (very common!).
- Use passing places on single-track roads.
- Be prepared to reverse if you meet oncoming traffic.
đ The Severn Crossings
Good news! The Prince of Wales Bridge (M4) and Severn Bridge (M48) are now completely toll-free. You can drive into Wales from England without paying a penny.
Top 3 Scenic Drives in Wales
- Black Mountain Pass (A4069): Famous winding road in the Brecon Beacons. Stunning views but drive carefully.
- Snowdonia (A4086/A498): The drive around Llanberis Pass offers dramatic mountain scenery.
- Pembrokeshire Coast: Coastal roads offering views of cliffs and beaches.
Enjoy Your Trip
Just remember: Streelights present = 20mph (unless signed otherwise).
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